Fans of Rick and Morty may finally be getting the big-screen adventure they have been waiting for. Co-creator Dan Harmon has officially confirmed that an animated Rick and Morty feature film is in development, putting an end to years of speculation surrounding the franchise’s cinematic future. The project is currently being developed by Warner Bros., with longtime series director Jacob Hair reportedly set to direct. According to Harmon, the creative team never considered bringing in an outside filmmaker.
Speaking ahead of the premiere of Season 9, Harmon praised Hair’s contribution to the series and explained why he was the obvious choice to lead the film.
“Jacob Hair is the director. We didn’t shop around,” Harmon said, describing Hair as a foundational part of the show’s success rather than simply another talented director.
Hair joined the animated hit during Season 4 and has directed several of the series’ most acclaimed episodes, including the fan-favorite episodes The Vat of Acid Episode, Rickmurai Jack, Night Family, Unmortricken, and Valkyrick.
While plot details remain tightly under wraps, Harmon has previously shared his vision for what a Rick and Morty movie should look like. Rather than dramatically changing the tone of the franchise, he wants the film to feel like an expanded version of the series itself.
In an earlier interview, Harmon described the concept as taking a classic Rick and Morty adventure, increasing the scale and budget, and stretching it into a feature-length experience without sacrificing the show’s signature humor and chaos.
The movie has been discussed for years behind the scenes. At one point, filmmaker Zack Snyder reportedly offered to help get the project moving through Hollywood, later making a cameo appearance in the animated series.
The franchise continues to evolve following major changes in 2023. Original co-creator and voice actor Justin Roiland exited the series after domestic abuse charges were filed against him. The charges were later dismissed, but Adult Swim had already recast the lead roles, with Ian Cardoni and Harry Belden taking over as the voices of Rick Sanchez and Morty Smith.
Beyond Rick and Morty, Hair has worked on projects including Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe, Family Guy, and King of the Hill.
The announcement arrives as Rick and Morty prepares to launch its ninth season. The series has already been renewed through Season 12, and a new spinoff centered on President Curtis is also in development for Adult Swim.
Although the movie remains in the early stages, Harmon’s confirmation marks the clearest sign yet that Rick and Morty’s first theatrical adventure is finally becoming a reality.